William D. Duff

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our father, William David “Bill” Duff.  He left this world on Dec. 15, 2025, at home after visiting with family. Bill leaves behind a void that can never be filled, and his departure leaves us with a deep sense of loss and sadness.

Bill was born Jan. 25, 1934, in Milwaukee, Wis., and lived a life full of adventure, purpose and unwavering determination. He embraced every challenge with grace and faced adversity with resolve. Throughout his journey, he touched the lives of countless people with kindness, wisdom and charm.

As a devoted father, Bill nurtured a loving and close-knit family. He was the cherished husband of Carol Eva Greathouse, and together they shared a beautiful legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his five children, David Duff, Robert (Kelley) Duff, Cathleen (James) Tonkin, Blair Duff and Andrew Duff, his grandchildren Kyle Duff, Alysa Duff Banks, Miles Tonkin and Leia Collado-Duff and by his great-grandchildren Kaylor and Kael Banks.

He is also survived by his siblings Margaret Sauer, Charles M. (Barbara) Duff, Alice (Howard) Clausing and Dorothy (Joe) Dorr, his sister-in-law Marlyn Duff and brother-in-law Don Laubenstein.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles W. Duff, Louise Helen Steffan and Margaret E. Duff, his brother James W. Duff, sister Virginia Laubenstein and brother-in-law Alan Sauer.    

Bill and Carol were married for 63 years before Carol passed away on Dec. 27, 2021. Their unconditional love will forever be missed.

Bill went to Port Washinton High and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he studied engineering and sciences.

He served in the military from 1956 to 1958 and was stationed at Sandia Army Base in Albuquerque, N.M., as an MP. He also served time in the Pacific Islands at the nuclear bomb testing site at Eniwetok Atolls in Operation Hardtack.

Bill had a golden tongue and persuasive technique that led him to a career as a manufacturer sales representative for more than 40 years. During the 1980s, he won the national die caster’s award twice for a high-pressure casting in the diesel engine market.

Bill and Carol lived in Libertyville, Ill., for more than 40 years. They were active in Faith Community Church and formed many lasting friendships over the years.

Bill enjoyed the game of golf and horseback riding in God’s glorious country. He served as convenor of Clan MacDuff for several years and was very proud of his heritage. He spent many summers at the Scottish Highland Games at Grandfather Mountain, N.C. Everyone had kilts, but Bill wore it best.  He enjoyed Skyping with family and his weekly BSer’s meetings, as well as reading many books in his library.

He always made time for the people he loved and cared about throughout the years. His ability to make everyone feel valued and heard had a remarkable way of brightening even the darkest days.

Bill and Carol retired to Hendersonville, N.C., in 1999.  Carol continued her involvement with DAR and P.E.O. She joined the choir at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Flatrock. Her passion was history and helping those in need.

It was during her time in North Carolina that her health declined. It was a hard decision to make, but Bill moved her into a facility a mile from the house so she could get the care she needed. Bill visited her every day until she passed on Dec. 27, 2021.

A celebration of life will be held for both William David Duff and his loving wife Carol Eva in summer in Port Washington, Wis.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who have reached out with their love, support and condolences during this challenging time. Your kind words and gestures have provided us with comfort and strength. We are forever grateful for your unwavering presence in our lives.